The Gauteng Provincial Government is calling on all road users and members of the public to prioritise safety as higher traffic volumes are anticipated and public activity ahead of the Heritage Day holiday on Thursday, 24 September 2026.
The Provincial Government is expecting a surge in intra and interprovincial trips, which will
likely result in higher traffic volumes on municipal, provincial and national routes, elevating the risk of crashes and fatalities.Motorists, bikers, cyclists and pedestrians are urged to prioritize road safety and remain vigilant during this period by managing driver fatigue, avoiding distractions, and obeying all traffic laws.
Motorists and passengers must always wear their seatbelts, avoid distractions and refrain from using mobile phones while driving.
Traffic law enforcement authorities have also identified high-risk major routes for targeted monitoring during this period. These include:
- N1 between Tshwane and Polokwane,
- N4 between Tshwane and eMalahleni,
- N4 between Tshwane and Rustenburg,
- R573 between Tshwane and Moloto,
- N1 between Johannesburg and Bloemfontein,
- N3 between Johannesburg and Durban,
- N12 between Johannesburg and Potchefstroom, and
- R59 between Alberton and Sasolburg.
Accordingly, pedestrian safety remains a significant concern, with pedestrian-vehicle collisions accounting for 43% of road fatalities. Pedestrians are urged to exercise extreme caution when crossing roads and to make use of designated crossing areas wherever possible, wear visible or reflective clothing, particularly at night or in low light areas, avoid hitchhiking and avoid distractions which may expose them to serious safety risks.
“Motorists, bikers, and cyclists are urged to remain patient and vigilant, especially near built-up, residential areas and informal settlements. Pedestrians are advised to refrain from walking on roads while under the influence of alcohol, to avoid highways, to use pedestrian bridges on busy freeways, and to wear bright or reflective clothing at night,” said MEC Kedibone Diale-Tlabela.
Parents, guardians and caregivers are reminded to ensure that children are appropriately supervised when crossing roads, particularly in towns, cities and townships. Joggers and recreational runners are, likewise, urged to avoid exercising on or alongside busy roads and, where possible, make use of designated recreational areas and other safer locations.
Members of the public who will be visiting entertainment venues are urged to celebrate responsibly and respect the safety and dignity of others. The public is encouraged to avoid excessive alcohol consumption, comply with the rules and security measures of entertainment venues, and remain vigilant about their own safety and that of those around them.
“Those who consume alcohol are urged to make alternative transport arrangements by using a designated sober driver, public transport or other safe means of getting home. Under no circumstances should motorists drive while under the influence of alcohol or other substances,” MEC Diale-Tlabela added.
Entertainment venue owners and organisers are encouraged to take reasonable measures to protect patrons, manage crowds responsibly and ensure that appropriate emergency procedures are in place.
Women and children should be able to participate in public activities and move freely within their communities without fear of violence, abuse, harassment or exploitation. Members of the public are encouraged to remain vigilant in public spaces, entertainment venues, transport facilities and communities, and to report incidents of violence, abuse, criminality or any situation in which a person may be at risk.
Parents, guardians and caregivers are further urged to know the whereabouts of their children, ensure they are appropriately supervised and make safe arrangements when attending public events and celebrations. The public is also encouraged to look out for vulnerable members of society, including children, women, persons with disabilities and older persons.
The Gauteng Traffic Police, working with other law enforcement agencies, will continue to conduct operations across the province to promote road safety, ensure compliance with traffic laws and enhance protection of citizens.
The Gauteng Traffic Police wishes all residents and visitors to the province a safe, peaceful and enjoyable Heritage Day.
No comments:
Post a Comment